The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Lavern E. Thomas (MCSN: 888915), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Rifle Squad Leader serving with Company F, Second Battalion, Twenty-fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands on 1 to 3 March 1945. Quick to act when his squad’s advance was hampered by a barrage from two concealed Japanese positions and determined to break through the resistance Corporal Thomas boldly engaged the enemy in a hand grenade duel. Fighting furiously he succeeded in neutralizing both positions and releasing his comrades from overwhelming hostile fire thereby enabling his unit to continue the advance. By his fearless initiative, indomitable aggressiveness and unwavering devotion to duty Corporal Thomas contributed essentially to the seizure of vital enemy objectives until fatally wounded while directing his men in the assault of a heavily fortified stronghold. Corporal Lavern E. Thomas gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.